Renault Trucks has opened a local assembly in Thika as it expands its footprint in Kenya.
The move follows the establishment of a long-term partnership with the local exclusive importer CMC Motors and the unveiling of their new C and K ranges in Mombasa and Nairobi.
The plant, which was commissioned by Industrialization Principal Secretary Dr Francis Owino will see Renault and CMC Motors create over 200 new jobs with additional opportunities set to be generated across the value chain.
Present during the launch were Renault Trucks President Bruno Blin and Al-Futtaim Group Senior Managing Director Colin Cordry.
In alignment with the 2030 Kenya industrialization vision, Renault Trucks vehicles come with a guaranteed French origin but are assembled locally. Since 1974, CMC Motors has established a partnership with Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM).
Assembly of Renault Trucks will strengthen its position as a key player in the automotive industry in East Africa.
“We are more than pleased to be here and make this possible. We are still guaranteeing the best products and services offer while contributing to employment and industrialization of the country,” said Bruno Blin, President Renault Trucks Africa.
Industrialisation PS said Dr Owino said the Government is developing the National Automotive Policy which will give direction and impetus for the development of a vibrant automotive industry. The main policy objective is to make Kenya an automotive manufacturing hub in the region.
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“The local automotive industry in Kenya is characterized by the dominance of used imported (second hand) vehicles, automotive assembling oriented towards passenger and commercial vehicles, lack of local full manufacture, and reliance on KD (Knocked Down) kits due to minimal local parts production.
“I urge this company to consider sourcing materials and parts for their assembly from local manufacturing entities such as the Numerical Machining Complex (NMC) and SMEs involved in the production of these parts,” said Dr Owino.
Renault Trucks training centre
A regional training centre is now operating in Nairobi, allowing Kenya to become a regional Hub for South East Africa region to support competence development.
This Renault Trucks training centre is part of the Al Futtaim Academy and has already held some technical training organized by the French manufacturer.
Renault Trucks has a presence in over 100 countries offering commercial vehicle users a variety of innovative services and vehicles (from 2.8 to 120 T) adapted to a wide range of transport activities ranging from distribution, construction, heavy construction, long distance.
CMC Motors Group Ltd is owned by CMC Holdings Ltd and was acquired by the Al-Futtaim Group in 2014.
